Electromagnetic shielding effectiveness of silver‐coated hollow glass microsphere‐graded short carbon fiber epoxy composite

Abstract

The present study is investigating the use of short carbon fiber (SCF) and silver‐coated hollow glass microsphere (Ag@HGM) reinforced epoxy light‐weight composites for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding applications in the X‐band frequency range (i.e., 8–12 GHz). The study found that Ag@HGM along with SCF significantly improved the dielectric properties of the composites and enhanced the EMI shielding effectiveness of 34.6 dB. Thermal analysis indicates that the sample shows a high rate of heat dissipation and good thermal conductivity. The dynamic mechanical analysis has indicated that the composite has improved storage modulus, glass transition temperature, and activation energy.Highlights SCF and Ag@HGM epoxy composite is fabricated for EMI shielding application. Two steps: etching and electroless coating of HGM are used for silver coating. The addition of Ag@HGM has enhanced total SE from 27.4 to 34.6 dB. EM wave gets scattered, experiences internal reflections view SCF and Ag@HGM. Additionally, enhancement of thermal and mechanical properties is observed.